UPDATE: A San Francisco fire department lieutenant is under investigation following inflammatory comments he made on social media regarding immigration enforcement. Lt. David Waters, a veteran of over a decade with the San Francisco Fire Department, is facing scrutiny after expressing support for a federal immigration operation in Oakland, including a controversial remark that echoed Pokémon’s slogan, “Gotta catch ’em all!”
The incident ignited on social media after Waters reacted to a November 19 news report detailing an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation. During this operation, an ICE vehicle was involved in a high-speed chase that resulted in damaging a pregnant woman’s car. Remarkably, she was unharmed in the incident. Waters’ original post included a GIF of Pikachu celebrating the operation, which many interpreted as a callous endorsement of harsh immigration tactics.
Waters’ comments drew immediate backlash. After one user criticized his post, suggesting that the community should alert the fire department about his views, Waters responded defensively, claiming, “how am I racist for wanting illegals deported?” He further insisted that individuals cannot “enter a country illegally then complain when you’re told to leave.”
Following the uproar, Waters has deleted his posts, and his Instagram profile has vanished. His LinkedIn page, previously listing him as a firefighter, now displays him as a “landscape photographer.” Records show Waters has been on the fire department’s payroll since at least 2009, earning a substantial salary of $319,625.98 last year, which includes $264,773.96 in pay and additional benefits.
The San Francisco Fire Department is taking this matter seriously. In a statement, Lt. Mariano Elias emphasized that the department does not condone such behavior, stating, “The comments do not reflect the values and principles of the San Francisco Fire Department.” He reiterated the department’s commitment to “protect and serve all members of the community, regardless of their background or immigration status.”
The fire department has launched a formal investigation into Waters’ comments, which could lead to disciplinary actions. Elias underscored their dedication to diversity and inclusion, affirming, “We do not tolerate behavior that promotes hate or discrimination.”
As this situation develops, community members and activists are closely watching the fire department’s actions and the potential implications for the department’s reputation. Waters has not yet responded to requests for comment.
This story highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policy and local law enforcement’s role, raising critical questions about accountability and community trust. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
